After living in China for 4 months, returning back home to Canada was a little bittersweet. Although the change of living in another country was hectic and I missed my friends and family, there were a lot of great things about Shanghai that I wish I could bring back to Canada. Here are the 10 things I miss the most about China.

1) The Transportation system

In most of China's major cities, they have a pretty well developed public transportation system. It may look complex, but once you get the hang of it, it is very easy to understand. They have a reloadable card system which was easy to use and a trip may cost anywhere from 1 to 5 yuan which can be less than a dollar USD! They also have some of the fastest trains in the world, making it easy to travel from city to city.

2) The food

China is food heaven, even if you’re only visiting one part of China you can eat local specialties from all over the country in major cities. Not only is the food delicious, but very affordable and easily accessible. From street food to upscale restaurants, no matter where you choose to eat, you’re bound to get something delicious.

3) Bad English

As someone who is fluent in English, the bad English translations are actually a hilarious sight. People wearing ridiculous phrases on their shirts as they walk down the street, with probably no idea what they mean. Miss translated menu items that sound like the food is straight out of a horror movie. I'll definitely miss the random pop-ups of engrish.

4) The nightlife

You’ll find one of the best nightlife scenes in the world in cities like Shanghai. Where people from not only all over China mix but the whole world! A city full of expats, international students, and vacationers, people looking to have a good time are everywhere. It was always interesting meeting different people from all over the world. Not to mention what also helps is that a beer could cost you less than a dollar for a huge 650ml bottle.

5) Selfies Everywhere

China is one of those places where you don’t have to worry about being judged for taking a good selfie or two or three or 20. People are taking selfies everywhere, and it's just part of the culture, making it less awkward to just bust out your phone in the restaurant or the subway and take a few selfies.

6) Markets

One of the iconic parts of Asia is the markets. Everything from clothing markets, electronic markets, seafood markets, night markets, etc… Not only was there places to buy exactly what you’re looking for. From parts to the final product. There's a hustle and bustle at these markets that are unlike other places in the world!

7) The conveniences

Delivery glore! You can get almost anything delivered in China. From McDonalds to alcohol to smokes. You can even get a letter picked up to be delivered elsewhere! Also if you don’t like cleaning or cooking, there's Ayi’s for rent that will come cook and clean for you for less than 20 yuan an hour which is around $3 USD.

8) Cheap Services and goods

China is known for being quite a cheap place to live, and it’s true! Anything from haircuts, massages, nail salons, etc… You can even get tailored clothing at a fraction of the price! I personally got 2 coats tailor made in Shanghai at the fabric market for less than $40 USD each!

9) Culture & History

China being one of the oldest countries in the world, retains much of its culture and history. In big cities, you can find signs and relics of the previous dynasties. Short trips from the city will take you to water towns, old towns, and other amazing historical

10) Taxis

One of the luxuries I enjoyed in Shanghai is frequent taxi rides. They are a lot cheaper compared to the rest of the world. In bigger cities like Shanghai, they're actually more expense than rural areas, but it is still very affordable. Also driving myself would be impossible for me not only because I don’t have a license, but the drivers in China are quite aggressive. Sitting in the back of a taxi as it zips through traffic is an experience in it self that you’ll only get in China.

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Monica is a Canadian-Chinese travel blogger and marketer that has spent time in Beijing, Nanjing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hangzhou,and Xitang, Shanghai. When she isn't watching YouTube videos, you can find her writing or creating videos.